What Type of Networker Are You?

Come Recommended

Aug. 18, 2011, 11:58 AM

Networking is not only great for your career, but also your job search. It's been estimated that as many as 80 percent of jobs are filled through some sort of networking, which is why neglecting your network and shying away from new contacts can be detrimental to your success.

When a new person wanders over to the group you are speaking with, what do you do?

a. Nothing. b. Shift your body to give them room in the circle, make eye contact or smile. c. Wait for an opportunity to ask them their opinion and bring them into the conversation. d. Stop the conversation and welcome him/her in.

What percent of the new people you meet do you follow up with?

a. < 25% b. 26% - 49% c. 50% - 74% d. > 75%

When are you most likely to reach out to your network?

a. I don't. b. When they reach out to me. c. On a regular basis when there is a reason (i.e. Birthday, job opportunity, change in situation, etc.) d. On daily basis.

Depending on your total score, you'll fall into one of the following types:

The Observer

You tend to hang back in a crowd. You watch what is going on, but don't get involved. You never initiate and rarely follow up on making new connections. The result, your network is small and you are not in the front of people's minds as a resource. If you are uncomfortable, make slight changes. Consider making the follow up via email or through social media. If you prefer one on one - invite someone to lunch. If the group is easier at first, then tag along or ask to join a group that has room for one more at the table. Look for situations that match your style and comfort until you get used to joining in.

The Reactor

You are interested in making those new connections but feel more comfortable when someone else takes the lead. You can get stuck keeping a conversation flowing. You are responsive to other's attempts to connect and follow up more frequently when in response to something specific. You take a subtle approach though sometimes your comfort and confidence may get in your way. You are on the right track. Stretch a little more and you will gain comfort. Set a goal to initiate a conversation once a week and to find a reason to reach out to a new contact. Don't doubt they want you to - you are not the type that comes on too strong so don't worry about feeling like a nuisance.

The Initiator

You are actively networking and taking a balanced approach. You seek opportunities, include others in the conversation, and follow up regularly. People think about you for a variety of reasons and you are effectively staying in the front of their minds. Keep doing what's working.

The Director

You are strategic and methodical about networking. It is high on your priority list and you take a numbers approach. You are involved in many organizations which increases your familiarity since you or your name pops up everywhere. Your approach may feel insincere or over the top for some. Give people some breathing room and use a lighter touch when reaching out. Seek to connect beyond the surface topics that come up in business. Make sure people feel you value the time you are spending with them and not looking for the next or more interesting contact in the room. Don't pull back too much, simply consider your timing, frequency, and depth of conversation.